Order

Families

Order HETERODONTIFORMES

Common name: Bullhead Sharks, Horn Sharks

Summary:

A small order of primitive and distinctive bottom-dwelling sharks with a single family, the Heterodontidae.

Bullhead or horn sharks have bony crests or ridges above the eyes, a small terminal mouth and two dorsal fins, each preceded by a large, stout spine. The sharp grasping teeth at the front of the jaws, and the crushing molars at the rear are ideal for feeding on hard-shelled invertebrates. Females lay spiral-shaped egg cases.